Can I File a Lawsuit If I Was Attacked at a Hotel?

In the state of Minnesota, both hotel guests and their visitors are considered entrants, which means they are entitled to the expectation of safety. If the owner or staff of a hotel fails to keep the premises in reasonably safe condition, anyone who is injured as a result has the right to file a personal injury claim.

There are many types of accidents for which a hotel may be held liable. For instance, if the parking lot has confusing signage that does not facilitate the flow of traffic, the hotel may be liable for any collisions that occur. Likewise, if a guest is attacked on the premises because of inadequate security or insufficient lighting, he or she can file a claim against the owner for damages.

When Can I File a Lawsuit If I Was Attacked at a Hotel? 

Barring cases involving strict liability or intentional wrongdoing, negligence is the basis of all successful personal injury claims including those against hotels. Failing to clean up a wet floor or at least warn guests of it, for example, would constitute negligence in a slip and fall claim.

When it comes to cases involving assault and battery, the breach of duty is typically some form of negligent security. Here are a few examples of negligent security in a lodging facility:

• Inattentive Front Desk Staff: Front desk clerks have an obligation to screen visitors who are not actually staying at the hotel;
• Insufficient Security: The hotel must have enough security guards on staff—and on schedule—to patrol the premises 24/7;
• Inadequate Lighting: All areas where guests may loiter or pass through should be well lit including stairwells and parking garages;
• Broken or Faulty Door Locks: Every guestroom should have an adequate locking mechanism in good working order; and
• Lacking CCTV System: If the hotel lacks security cameras or staff to monitor the footage for suspicious activity, it may be liable for any attack that occurs as a result.

Discuss Your Case with a Premises Liability Lawyer in St. Cloud 

If you were attacked at a hotel in Minnesota, turn to a personal injury attorney at Bradshaw & Bryant to determine if you have grounds for a claim. Our compassionate injury lawyers will answer your questions, investigate the incident, and help you navigate every step of the claims process.

Many law firms have little to no experience handling premises liability claims, but the attorneys at Bradshaw & Bryant have an extensive background and successful track record in these cases. We will do everything in our power to get you fairly compensated for the injuries you have suffered due to the hotel’s negligence.

Call 320-259-5414 today to schedule a free initial consultation with a premises liability attorney in St. Cloud. You can also send us a message online by filling out our Contact Form.